A CTA rider looked like he had gotten his foot stuck in between the train and the platform at the Jackson station in the Loop. Another rider stopped to help the man and then got on the train--without his wallet.

The man's foot was never stuck, police said at a recent press conference where they aired CTA footage of the scam to get riders' wallets.

Chicago police say they have identified 165 active pickpockets on the CTA. On Thursday, they provided CTA riders with safety tips for the holidays.

>> Watch for scams, which may include dropping loose change, fainting in front of a person, or bumping into another rider. Once attention is diverted, riders' wallets or purses may be taken.

>> Avoid carrying unnecessary personal information, such as a Social Security card or number, old credit cards, or ATM receipts in wallets. Store this information at home.

>> Keep purses close to the body, ideally in front of the body or under a jacket or coat. Keep wallets in front pants pockets or coat breast pockets.

>> Stay alert and watch riders who bump into others on a crowded bus or train. They may be pickpockets.

Riders should take particular care to watch their belongings at CTA stations by large shopping centers such as the Chicago Red Line stop or pricey electronics stores such as the North/Clybourn station by the Apple store.